Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Triad Election: A Movie Review

The movie that I am going to review is called "Election". It is a 2005 Hong Kong crime film. Even though the movie is entirely in Cantonese, there is English subtitle for everyone to enjoy. The film premiered as an "Official Selection" at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival in France. I love this movie and so is Quentin Tarantino. In fact, in 2005 he called this movie "The Best Film of the Year."

                                                            From: papermag.com




This movie is definitely not your traditional gang movie. In fact, there is a lot of implications of the current state of China as well as Hong Kong. Basically the story is about The Wo Shing Society, Hong Kong's oldest Triad. Every two years, the senior members of the Triad would elect a new chairman. There is fierce rivalries emerge between two promising candidates. Lok, respected by most of the members and Uncles, is the clear favourite to win. However, his rival Big D would do whatever it takes to be elected, includes bribe and violence. When Wo Shing's ancient symbol of leadership, the Dragon's Head Baton gone missing; a ruthless power struggle erupts. Both parties refuse to give in and at the end, a showdown is inevitable.

                                                            From: avistaz.com


The picture above is from the movie as the cast takes part in a Chinese ancestor worship ceremony. It is a ritual practice based on the believe that the deceased ancestors have a continued existence and possess the ability to influence the fortune of the living ones.

Overall, I think this movie is a masterpiece and it leaves us a lot to think of. Be aware that this movie quite graphic though. However, be sure to check this movie out, especially if you want to know more about the Chinese rituals. 





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